Gov House Announces: Nana Baby Home Purchase; Healthcare initiatives; Passing of Louis Taylor

M.A. Dworkin

St. Thomas - Governor Albert Bryan Jr. announced at Monday’s Press Briefing at Government House on St. Thomas, that the Government of the Virgin Islands has purchased the Nana Baby Home facility on St. Thomas, securing the future of a beloved sanctuary that has sheltered and nurtured the Territory’s most vulnerable children for more than four decades. 

“For generations, the Nana Baby Home has been a refuge in moments of crisis, a place where infants and toddlers found safety, love and dignity when the world seemed uncertain,” Governor Bryan stated. “By purchasing this facility, we are lifting the burden of survival from those who have carried it so faithfully, so they may devote their hearts fully to the children. To support the Nana Baby Home is not only an act of compassion - it is an investment in the soul of our community.”

The Governor praised the staff, volunteers and supporters whose devotion has kept the doors open through every trial, describing their work as “ a steady light guiding our most fragile lives toward brighter days.” He pledged that his Administration would stand firmly beside them as they continue their mission. 

VIWMA Names New Executive Director

At the Press Briefing, Governor Bryan also announced the the Virgin Islands Waste Management Authority (VIWMA) Governing Board, led by Public Works Commissioner and Board Chair Derek Gabriel, has appointed Hannibal Michael Ware as VIWMA’s new Executive Director.

“This appointment marks the start of a new chapter for VIWMA,” said the Governor. “Waste Management may not capture headlines, but it is the unseen foundation of healthy neighborhoods, safe streets and a protected environment. Strong leadership here means accountability, vision and restored public trust. I commend Chairman Gabriel and the Board for their diligence, and I congratulate Mr. Ware as he takes on this vital role.”

The Governor also expressed gratitude to Daryl Griffith for stepping into the leadership role during a period of transition and for his continued service to the Authority.

Fiscal Responsibility and Health Insurance Reform

The Governor used the briefing to remind Virgin Islanders of the progress his Administration has made in restoring fiscal stability: paying out tens of millions in long-overdue retroactive wages, issuing timely tax refunds and repaying the 8 percent salary cut once forced upon government workers. 

“Trust was not restored by promises, it was restored by results,” Governor Bryan stated.

Still, The Governor cautioned that provisions in the proposed Fiscal Year 2026 Budget - including a 30 percent increase to the minimum government salary, a 3 percent increase in employer contributions to the Government Employees Retirement System (GERS) and higher health insurance premiums - risked placing unsustainable pressure on the Treasury if enacted all at once. 

“Each of these measures is noble in its intent,” the Governor said. “But progress must be built to last. Taken together, they threaten to undo years of careful work. We have come too far to risk sliding backward.”

To address the rising cost of health insurance, Bryan announced that he met with the Government Employees Service Commission Board last week. Working with its consulting partner, the Gehring Group, the Board will complete a comprehensive study by December 2025 on transitioning to a self-funded system. 

“This is a positive step that puts us on stronger footing to manage costs, strengthen efficiency and deliver the quality health care our employees and retirees deserve,” the Governor said. “By planning carefully and engaging the right partners, we will safeguard the fiscal health of our government and the physical health of the men and women who make that government possible.”

Passing of Louis Taylor

Governor Bryan issued the following statement on the passing of Virgin Islands musician and athlete Louis Taylor:

“I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Louis Taylor, a gifted Virgin Islander whose talents and dedication left a lasting mark on our community.

As a musician, Louis enriched our cultural landscape, sharing his artistry in ways that brought people together and celebrated the spirit of our islands. His music carried not only rhythm and melody, but also the warmth and vibrancy of Virgin Islands life. 

In addition to his musical contributions, Louis was a passionate advocate for the sport of tennis. Through his commitment and example, he encouraged many to embrace the discipline, sportsmanship, and joy that the game inspires. 

Louis Taylor’s legacy will be remembered through the lives he touched, the music he created, and the athletes he inspired. On behalf of the people of the Virgin Islands, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, friends, and loved ones during this time of mourning.”